On average, our 911 Communications Operators handle over 4,200 calls per week. Every day, moments of crisis, uncertainty, and urgency often begin with a call for help. Behind each one is a highly trained 911 Communications Operator—calm, focused, and ready to support those in need. Although their work often happens behind the scenes, its impact is felt every day across our community. Last week, during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (April 12 – 18), and throughout the year, we recognize the dedication of these professionals whose work is foundational to public safety. At the same time, we continue to implement initiatives to proactively address complex public safety challenges, which can also reduce emergency calls and demands on our front-line officers. Last month, there were: · 4128 Calls for Service · 168 calls related to the Mental Health Act · 315 arrests · 51 assaults on police The Downtown Core Stabilization Initiative, led by our Community Outreach Unit, is focused on improving safety in both downtown business areas. It proactively addresses concerns such as open drug use, disorderly behaviour, vandalism, and aggressive conduct, and how these issues affect people’s sense of safety and the local economy. This initiative combines a visible police presence with care and compassion. Foot patrols include a social navigator and community inclusion supports to connect people with services for addiction, mental health, or housing needs whenever possible. When individuals decline support or continue behaviour that is not permitted, officers take consistent, lawful, and fair enforcement action. This work relies on strong partnerships, and I thank our community and social service partners for their ongoing commitment to long‑term solutions. We are also strengthening our Service by welcoming new officers to our front‑line teams. Last month, seven new constables were sworn in, and additional recruits will join us after completing police academy. These recruits help us meet day‑to‑day demands while building for the future of policing in our community. I extend my sincere thanks to our sworn and civilian members, community partners, and residents. Public safety is a shared responsibility, and together we continue working toward a safer, more supportive community for everyone.

Project Support: Downtown Core Stabilization Q. What is it? A. The pilot project began on April 20 and will continue for 60 days. It involves teams conducting visible foot patrols in North and South downtown cores to deter disorder, respond quickly to concerns, and increase public confidence. Each patrol team is paired with a Social Navigator and/or Community Integration Team (CIT) Coordinator, ensuring service engagement is the first point of contact. Individuals are offered referrals to addiction treatment, mental health services, housing supports, and other appropriate resources. Q. What sort of safety concerns led to this project? A. We’re responding to concerns we’ve heard consistently about unsafe behaviours, trespassing, vandalism, public intoxication. This is a proactive initiative aimed at improving safety in shared public spaces in downtown cores. Our goal is to help connect people with the assistance that best suits their needs. Q. How does this address the needs of people? A. Our focus and first contact is outreach. Our main goal is to connect people with the most appropriate social services to suit their needs. Criminal enforcement may be pursued if disruptive or illegal behaviours in shared public spaces in downtown cores persists. Q. Will this reduce police availability for other calls for service? A. The initiative is being operated by our Community Oriented Response and Engagement Unit and will not directly impact Primary Response Unit staffing or response time.